Heman M. Sweatt Award bestowed to committed change agents using their legal acumen for greater good
WASHINGTON – Hip Hop Caucus is proud to celebrate Tanya Clay House, Executive Vice President of Government Affairs and Public Policy, who has been selected as an Heman M. Sweatt Award recipient at the National Bar Association’s 44th Annual Midyear Conference. Tanya Clay House will be honored at the Heman M. Sweatt Awards Luncheon on Friday, March 8, 2024, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM at the JW Marriott Houston in Houston, TX.
The Heman M. Sweatt Award recognizes outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the legal profession and social justice advocacy. Tanya Clay House’s tireless dedication to advancing civil rights, promoting equity, and empowering communities has earned her this prestigious recognition.
As a graduate of the University of Texas School of Law, the Heman M. Sweatt Award is particularly heartwarming because Heman Sweatt helped make it possible for me and others that look like me, to not only attend the University of Texas, but many other law schools at that time,” said Tanya Clay House, Executive Vice President, Government Affairs and Public Policy at Hip Hop Caucus. “His seminal Supreme Court case – Sweatt v. Painter – successfully challenged the separate but equal doctrine and was the precursor to Brown v Board. As the daughter of a public school teacher, I have always treasured the importance of a quality public school education and the promise of racial equality in our society. I have worked throughout my career to make this a reality for all children, and now especially my own. This award truly brings me full circle in my work and I sincerely appreciate that the National Bar Association has chosen to honor me at this time in my life.”
Throughout her career, Tanya Clay House has been instrumental in leading initiatives that address critical issues with voting rights and protection, racial justice in education, and criminal justice reform, including her time as a President Obama administration appointee.
“We are thrilled to see Tanya Clay House receive this well-deserved honor from the National Bar Association,” said Rev. Lennox Yearwood Jr., President and CEO of Hip Hop Caucus. “Her leadership and advocacy have been integral to our mission of building a more just, equitable and healthy society. This award is a testament to her relentless dedication and impact.”
The National Bar Association’s 44th Annual Midyear Conference brings together legal professionals, scholars, and activists to address pressing issues facing the legal community and society at large.
Other 2024 Heman M. Sweatt award recipients include Hon. Christian D. Menefee (Harris County Attorney), Hon. Chris Hollins (Controller, City of Houston), Hon. Monique M. Edwards (Commissioner of Conservation, Louisiana Department of Resources), and Antoinette M. Jackson (Principal, The Banks Law Firm, P.A.).
For more information about the National Bar Association’s 44th Annual Midyear Conference and the Heman M. Sweatt Awards Luncheon, visit www.nationalbar.org.
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About Hip Hop Caucus
Formed in 2004, the Hip Hop Caucus (HHC) is a non-profit, non-partisan organization that leverages Hip Hop culture to encourage young people to participate in the democratic process. Through a collaborative leadership network, HHC addresses core issues affecting underserved communities. HHC programs and campaigns support solution-driven community organizing led by today’s young leaders.
